The most notable topic of the meeting was the amendment application from New Dia Fenway LLC, which proposed to expand its marijuana retailer license to include delivery services. The company, operating for nearly two years on Brooklyn Avenue in the Fenway-Kenmore area, aims to partner with Safe Light LLC to facilitate cannabis deliveries. Ross Bradshaw, representing New Dia, outlined a plan to enhance retail offerings by adding courier services, ensuring strict compliance with security protocols, such as age verification and the use of unmarked vehicles for deliveries. The proposed delivery window from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. was met with a series of inquiries from board members about the logistics and security measures in place.

Chairwoman Joyce sought clarification on the roles and responsibilities between New Dia and Safe Light, particularly focusing on how security would be managed. Bradshaw explained that New Dia would oversee sales and transactions while Safe Light handled the delivery process. Commissioner Holmes confirmed that Safe Light held a courier license in their home community, although not directly through the Boston Cannabis Board, prompting questions about regulatory compliance. Jasmine Wyn, the board manager, noted the necessity of obtaining Safe Light’s license and host community agreement to ensure adherence to regulations.

The board also explored market demand with Bradshaw, who expressed a cautious approach toward expanding delivery services beyond the Fenway area. Concerns were raised about delivery practices and the potential impact on traffic, with Bradshaw assuring that deliveries would utilize alleyways to minimize street congestion, drawing on their experience with wholesale deliveries. Additionally, the system’s ability to flag government-funded housing and other restricted areas was discussed, maintaining compliance by preventing deliveries to prohibited locations.

Public testimony from Sigy Johnson of the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Services confirmed that community outreach had not raised concerns, supported by the Fenway Civic Association’s favorable reception to the proposal.

The board then shifted its attention to a new license application from Legal Greens Boston LLC, which sought to establish a marijuana carrier and delivery operator license in Dorchester. Vanessa Gene Baptist presented the application, meeting equity applicant criteria by highlighting her background and community support, including endorsements from local officials. Tito Jackson, acting as a consultant, emphasized the extensive community engagement efforts, particularly from the Codman Square neighborhood council, which had previously opposed other applicants.

The operational framework for Legal Greens, including their use of unmarked vehicles and security features like GPS tracking and body-worn cameras, was discussed. They assured that no products would be displayed at the delivery premises, adhering to marketing regulations to prevent youth access.

The board also addressed the employment and compensation practices of the proposed courier and delivery operations. The commitment to local and minority hiring was highlighted, with a goal of employing 80% local residents, including 66% from minority communities. The pay structure detailed included $16 to $18 for drivers and up to $25 for managerial roles, with benefits like medical coverage and performance-based promotions.

Concerns about the previous retail operator’s failure at the proposed location due to unpaid bills were addressed. The operator confirmed ownership of the property and affiliations with building management.

The meeting concluded with a heated discussion regarding the INI Rose team’s cannabis retail business. A petition had been submitted against their establishment, raising concerns about the pivot from a bakery model to a full retail operation. The INI Rose representative emphasized community support through a counter-petition and the financial strain of reversing the board’s decision. They argued that the business model shift was necessary due to market changes and financial uncertainties.

The board debated the licensing implications of the business model change, with questions about whether a new business plan submission was required. The representative defended their adherence to licensing procedures, highlighting the financial urgency to maintain operations without restarting the process.